May is the month of the first outdoor events. Discover the programme of the season's best events in Paris:
May 2025 is shaping up to be a great time to get away, with three public holidays falling on a Thursday – 1st, 8th and 29th May – giving rise to three long weekends to enjoy a break in Paris: from 1 to 4 May 2025, from 8 to 11 May 2025, and from 29 May to 1 June 2025, for the Ascension weekend.
Stroll through the most beautiful gardens and woods in Paris, explore the capital's iconic neighbourhoods, enjoy the banks of the Seine, have a drink on a rooftop terrace or embark on a cruise on the Seine... Even on public holidays, Paris never stops!
Many museums and monuments remain open during public holidays, so you can make the most of your stay. For tourist information, Paris je t'aime - Tourist Office is here to help and welcome you!
Discover our guide to activities and experiences in Paris during the long weekends in May 2025.
Ascension Day is a Christian holiday celebrated 40 days after Easter, which is why its date changes every year. In 2025, it falls on Thursday 29 May, paving the way for a long weekend to get away from it all or explore Paris in a different way.
This religious holiday is the perfect time to (re)connect with Paris' spiritual and architectural heritage. Reopened on 8 December 2024, the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris has been spectacularly rediscovered.
Prolong the emotion with Eternal Notre-Dame - the immersive experience, which you can discover under the Parvis de Notre-Dame or in the La Défense district.
On the cultural side, the long Ascension weekend is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a variety of worlds, from rock to visual poetry: David Bowie - The Exhibition in the Marais district, for an immersion in the world of the Thin White Duke. Return to the Atelier des Lumières with three immersive exhibitions: Le Douanier Rousseau - Au pays des rêves, Picasso - Art in Motion and The Little Prince, Immersive Odyssey. At the Cinémathèque française, Wes Anderson - L'exposition offers a graphic journey into the quirky world of the American director. A tribute to the soul of Paris with Le Paris d'Agnès Varda, de-ci, de-là at the Musée Carnavalet. At the Musée d'Orsay, L'art est dans la rue reminds us how inseparable art and the city are. Finally, take a journey to the heart of craftsmanship with Au fil de l'or at the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac.
Immerse yourself in the world of this committed artist with Artemisia at the Jacquemart-André Museum, or explore Robert Doisneau's moments captured at the Maillol Museum. At the Musée de Montmartre, let yourself be carried away by Maximilien Luce, le regard d'un peintre social. And don't forget the poetic, interactive and innovative journey offered by the exhibition Into the Light at the Grande Halle de la Villette! Also in the Parc de la Villette, a festive atmosphere reigns at 100% L'Expo, which brings together the cream of contemporary creation.
Why not start with a family outing to one of the museums open on Ascension Day weekend? Marvel at the optical illusions at the Museum of Illusions, stimulate your children's curiosity at Science Experiences, or have fun at the Paradox Museum. Want to rediscover your inner child? Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of celebrities at the Musée Grévin, or succumb to the sweet treats at Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, ideal for sweet tooths!
Even on Ascension Day, Paris shines with its iconic landmarks: admire the view from the Eiffel Tower or discover a unique panorama of the city from the Montparnasse Tower. For a more unusual outing, explore La Défense Art Collection, an open-air contemporary art gallery. To discover all these monuments from the sky, head to André Citroën Park for a ride in the basket of the Ballon Generali, which will take you on a journey of discovery over Paris and Greater Paris at a height of 150 metres!
On Ascension weekend 2025, treat yourself to some magical moments or thrills: head to Disneyland Paris, Parc Astérix, or the Jardin d'Acclimatation for a fun-filled day. Fancy some nature and animals? The Paris Zoological Park welcomes you for a green getaway, just a stone's throw from the city.
For Ascension Day 2025, take a break from time at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: a 17th-century masterpiece illuminated by its magnificent French gardens. Walks, history and elegance await you. Another gem, the Château de Chantilly opens its doors to you with its sumptuous Condé museum and large stables, set in lush green surroundings.
Fancy a breath of fresh air and artistic inspiration? Set off on an excursion in the footsteps of the masters of art: the Claude Monet Foundation in Giverny immerses you in the world of the painter and his enchanting gardens. The Château d'Auvers invites you to relive the Impressionist era of Van Gogh. In terms of heritage, discover the Maison Caillebotte or literary romanticism at the Domaine départemental de la Vallée-aux-Loups - Maison de Chateaubriand.
Enjoy a classical moment at the Église de la Madeleine with Vivaldi's Four Seasons. If you missed Les Grandes Eaux Musicales at the Château de Versailles on 8 May 2025, a catch-up session awaits you on 29 May. You'll always have a laugh with Olivier Giraud - How to Become Parisian in One Hour at the Théâtre des Nouveautés. For a Broadway atmosphere in Paris, don't miss The Lion King at the Théâtre Mogador.
The Supersonic's Block Party Festival resonates in various venues in the Bastille district, including Supersonic. The Olympiad festival offers a unique and historic setting: the 12th-century Prieuré de Vernelle. There's a magical atmosphere at Disneyland Paris with the Disney Music Festival, for children of all ages.
The tradition continues with the Foire du Trône in the Bois de Vincennes: attractions, rides and treats for a 100% festive outing.
A cruise on the Seine or the Parisian canals allows you to explore Paris from the water, passing by its most famous monuments: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame de Paris...
This is an accessible and enjoyable activity, both during the day and in the evening. To choose the right route or find a cruise that suits your needs, check out our article dedicated to this unmissable Parisian experience.
Check out the highlights of the Parisian cultural scene for May 2025. From amazing exhibitions to shows and the first outdoor festivals of the year, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Spring in Paris promises to be packed with unforgettable concerts!
In May 2025, Paris has a line-up of exceptional concerts. The month gets off to a flying start with Twenty One Pilots at Accor Arena on Friday 2 May, promising an energetic show mixing alternative rock and hip-hop. On Monday 5 May, Aurora, known for her captivating melodies and crystal-clear voice, will be performing at the Zénith. DJ Snake, the indisputable master of the electro scene, will be at Accor Arena on Saturday 10 May for an evening of powerful beats. On Friday 16 May, the quirky pop style and sweet lyrics of Miel de Montagnecharm lthe Olympia. Dua Lipa, an icon of modern pop is set to cause a sensation at La Défense Arena on 23 and 24 May with her irresistible hits and spectacular choreography. On Saturday 31 May, the legendary Eric Clapton, a virtuoso guitarist and master of rock and blues, will be on stage at Accor Arena for an unforgettable concert. At the Seine Musicale, Insula Orchestra will be performing ‘Le Paradis et la Péri’ on 14, 16, 17 and 30 May, a unique and immersive operatic experience. Finally, the Orchestre de Paris, under the direction of Herbert Blomstedt, will offer two exceptional concerts at the Philharmonie on 21 and 22 May celebrating the grandeur of the classical symphonic repertoire with the ‘Sinfonie capricieuse’ by Franz Berwald and Brahms’s Symphony No 1. A musically rich month for all tastes.
In May 2025, Paris has a full programme of fantastic exhibitions.
At the Musée de l’Homme, Migrations, human odyssey explores the history of the movement of people to the present day. Le Centre Pompidou throws the spotlight on Suzanne Valadon, revealing her bold works and her profound influence on modern art.
At the Gaîté Lyrique, ’Pulse’ offers visitors an immersive experience combining art and technology. The Musée Jacquemart-André celebrates the great Artemisia Gentileschi, one of the rare female painters of the Italian Renaissance The Musée Picasso questions ideologies with ‘Degenerate Art’, whilst the Musée des Arts Décoratifs melts hearts with ‘My Teddy Bear’, a retrospective on this iconic soft toy.
At Citéco, ’Allez hop, au travail’ explores our relationship with work throughout history. Discover the treasures of the Al Thani collection at the Hôtel de la Marine, an exceptional ensemble of works of art from Antiquity to the present day. Finally, the Jeu de Paume explores the challenges of artificial intelligence with ’The World according to AI’.
An unprecedented dive into the world of nightlife, the Clubbing exhibition explores the links between partying, creativity and commitment, from the 1960s to the present day. With iconic outfits, immersive sets, sound and light, the Grand Palais Immersif highlights the nightlife scenes that have shaped an entire culture, from New York to Paris, via London and Berlin.
Four major exhibitions ending in May. ‘Carbon Footprint, the exhibition!’ at the Musée des Arts et Métiers, closes on 11 May, and raises awareness about effects on the environment. The Palais de Tokyo is presenting the vibrant works of Raphaël Barontini until 11 May. A New Look at Cimabue. At the Origins of Italian Painting at the Louvre , takes another look at the art of the Italian master, and finishes on 12 May. As for the Palace of Versailles, until 25 May it is showing the contemporary works of Guillaume Bresson, a key figure in French figurative painting.
Whether it's a play, opera or dance, May has a great line-up of entertainment!
In May 2025, Paris boasts a variety of captivating shows. At the Cité de l’Histoire, ‘Cesar’ offers an immersive, historical experience, plunging spectators into ancient Rome with spectacular sets and reconstructions.
The renowned comedian Panayotis Pascot is on stage at Bobino from 8 to 17 May, in a show a show packed with humour and sensitivity, exploring personal and universal themes. The Cirque Bormann presents ‘Tree, a poetic show combining acrobatics and emotions, illustrating the deep connection between man and nature.
Finally, the Musée d’Orsay surprises with a special evening devoted to the legendary Moulin Rouge, during which artistic performances are combined with an exploration of the links between art and the Parisian cabaret. Each event promises to be a memorable experience, a blend of tradition and modernity.
There’s something for everyone in Paris in May, including tiny tots. Babies are increasingly catered for by cultural venues (and artists) with programmes featuring events for this very special section of the public!
In May 2025, Paris has a raft of great activities and attractions for kids. The Paradox Museum offers an adventure full of optical illusions and interactive experiences that defy reality. Science Expériences, an immersive science park, allows young people to discover science in a fun way through fascinating experiments. At the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, l'exposition ‘Dance’ invites kids to explore the world of dance, whilst "Dogs and Cats" immerses curious youngsters in the world of their favourite animals, with a mix of games, discoveries and interaction.
May is traditionally a month of public holidays and long weekends, but it's also a month packed with all kinds of shows, fairs and festivals. So let's take a look at what's on.
In May 2025, Paris will be buzzing with a wide variety of trade shows, trade fairs and festivals. From 15 to 18 May 2025, The Belleville artists open days offer a unique opportunity to step into the world of art, meeting artists in their working spaces. From 21 to 25 May, the prestigious biennial Révélations at the Grand Palais showcases fine crafts and contemporary design. The Foire de Paris, from 30 April to 11 May, remains a must for lovers of innovation and new discoveries.
Jardins, Jardin, which showcases the art of landscape gardening, returns for a new edition from 22 to 25 May in the heart of the Villa Windsor park in the Bois de Boulogne, offering a showcase of green spaces, events, conferences and workshops.
On the festival scene, the Festival Jazz à St Germain-des-Prés fills the city with amazing jazz sounds from 12 to 19 May. From 29 to 31 May, Supersonic’s Block Party Festival turns the streets into a vibrant musical stage, whilst the ManiFeste Festival, from 20 May to 28 June 2025, celebrates the digital arts and contemporary music. Paris is alive with culture and creativity throughout the month.
The weekend of 16 and 17 May 2025 in Paris offers several interesting events. On 16 May, the Bal de l'Amour offers a festive and convivial evening, with music and a warm atmosphere. On 17 May, International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia is an opportunity to raise public awareness and promote equality and inclusion. Finally, Place de la Bastille will be hosting the first fan zone in Paris for the Eurovision final, with an open-air screening and a lively atmosphere. This weekend is therefore a great opportunity to enjoy the festivities while celebrating the values of diversity and inclusion, with the chance to see performances, notably by the French artist Louane. Please note that Eurovision fans can also head to the Arlequin cinema for the big Eurovision 2025 evening, with live coverage of the final starting at 8pm!
In May 2025, Paris becomes the capital of sport with a series of major events.
The Pyrénéenne, an iconic cycling race, rallies cycling enthusiasts over a demanding course. The Grand Steeple Chase de Paris, on 17 May 2025, attracts horse racing fans for a captivating equestrian event at the Hippodrome d’Auteuil. The exhibition ‘Militaires et sportifs : ça match !’ is a unique event celebrating the link between sport and defense, with a wide range of demonstrations and competitions.
At the French Open at Roland Garros, from 26 May to 9 June, tennis fans gather to watch tennis players compete on clay courts for the prestigious trophy. Attending Roland Garros is of course the opportunity to see the most exciting tennis matches and some of the best players in the world. Borg, Lendl, McEnroe, Noah, Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Evert, Graf, Navratilova, Serena Williams have all made the French Open so famous and the event attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators every year, in a unique atmosphere.
On 18 May 2025, Parc des Princes hosts the match PSG – Auxerre, a French league 1 fixture that promises to be an exciting match for Parisian supporters. Paris will be an intensely sporting month with unforgettable experiences for all spectators.
Finally, on 27 May 2025, the adidas arena will host Quarter-Final 1 between Paris Basketball and the Play-in C winner, the first match of the Playoffs, which promises to be intense and full of twists and turns!
On 22 May 2025, come and get your brain cells and trainers working at the Jeu de Paume, from 8pm to midnight!
Algo-Rythmes is an arty evening at a low price (€5): free admission to the exhibition Le monde selon l'IA, performances, DJ sets, art dating... all with drinks and snacks available on site.
On May 1st, many museums and monuments in Paris close for the public holiday ‘Fête du Travail’ (‘Labour Day’). Nevertheless, some iconic venues remain open. The Musée Jacquemart-André, renowned for its art collections, welcomes visitors. The Eiffel Tower too is open, for panoramic views of the capital. Tucked away in a historic district, The Musée de Montmartre also remains open to discover the artistic history of Paris.
In May, Paris has a lively nightlife scene. Bars in the Marais have a friendly vibe with numerous terraces to choose from. The Pigalle district, with clubs like the Moulin Rouge, is ideal for a night out with dancing. The Seine quaysides become a great place for partying, and Parisians and tourists flock there for outdoor aperos. Finally, houseboats on the Seine programme party evenings with music.
May is an ideal month to enjoy a walk in Paris. The Luxembourg Gardens, with their vast green spaces and statues, is a peaceful and pleasant place to relax. Les Buttes-Chaumont, a hilly park with a grotto and a suspension bridge, is a perfect park for a bucolic stroll. You can also stroll along the banks of the Seine - a Unesco World Heritage site - admiring its emblematic monuments.
